How to Become a Construction Manager in Arkansas

Construction managers handle nearly all parts of a building project.

They are also known as:

• Project managers
• General contractors

They collaborate with engineers, construction workers, and government officials.

If this job interests you, check out the article below.

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Construction Manager Job Description

A construction manager (CM) is the key person behind planning, budgeting, and managing building projects.

They ensure the project runs smoothly from start to finish.

Some companies might hire construction managers with an associate degree and relevant experience.

However, many prefer candidates with at least a bachelor’s degree.

A project manager can focus on different types of construction projects.

These constructions can be civil, industrial, commercial, residential, agricultural, or institutional.

Construction Manager Job Duties in Arkansas

While you might have an idea of what a general contractor does, there are some additional duties you should know about:

• Working onsite to make sure everything is built exactly to the plans
• Seeking specialized workers for different parts of the project
• Ensuring construction materials are delivered on time
• Managing any delays, no matter the cause
• Writing progress reports for clients
• Keeping the project within the budget

Becoming a Construction Manager – Step by Step

Becoming a construction manager isn’t easy.

There are a few different steps you need to take before starting your career.

1st Step – Complete Your Education

As previously said, this job requires more education compared to others.

While an associate’s degree is accepted, having a bachelor’s degree is better.

Such a program lasts for about 4 years.

You will get to learn more about:

• Design,
• Structural science,
• Engineering,
• Materials management
• Economics

Of course, you can also get an Associate’s degree and accumulate experience.

If you plan on working as an independent contractor, you do not need more than a high school diploma.

2nd Step – Become Licensed

You do not need to get a certification if you get a Bachelor’s degree.

However, you can always get a license to get more credentials.

This shouldn’t stop you from trying to earn more credentials.

In this industry, you can get the following titles:

• Certified Construction Manager (CCM)
• Certified Professional Constructor (CPC)
• LEED Green Associate
• Certified Safety Manager (CSM)
• Project Management Professional (PMP)
• Construction Manager Programs in Alabama

So, What are the CM Training Programs Available in Arkansas?

Let’s have a look at them!

University of Arkansas at Little Rock

The construction management program is a bachelor’s degree.

It combines courses in construction methods, engineering, and business from 2 schools:

• Donaghey College of Engineering and Information Technology
• College of Business.

This program’s integrated curriculum leads up to the final capstone courses in the senior year.

You don’t need to choose a minor.

To get a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management, you must maintain at least a 2.00 GPA in all required CNMG courses.

In total, you need to complete 123 credit hours, which includes 45 upper-level courses (3000-4000 level) and 30 hours completed at the university.

John Brown University

This university offers a Major in construction management that has a duration of 4 years, meaning it’s a Bachelor of Science program.

Through this Major, you’ll gain hands-on experience from the first year of study.

By the last year, you’ll be qualified to lead projects.

You won’t even have to worry about finding employment because through this Major a job is guaranteed 100%.

You must attend a minimum of 120 hours per semester, as follows:

• Elective – 3 hours
• Construction Management Major Field – 90 hours
• University Core Curriculum – 30 hours

Most of the classes are available only on campus.

NorthWest Arkansas Community College

Through this community college, you can choose from 2 programs:

• 2 certificate programs
• A degree program

One of the certificates is the Certificate of Proficiency in Construction Technology.

This program has 6 core courses and lasts for a semester.

The second certificate is a Technical Certificate in Construction Technology.

Here are the types of courses you’ll attend:

• General Education Courses – 4
• Required Core Courses – 3
• Core Construction Courses – 8

This certificate program lasts for a year.

If you want a degree, you’ll have to enroll in the AAS in Construction Technology.

The AAS has a duration of 2 years.

You’ll attend:

• 6 General Education Courses
• 12 Required Core Courses
• 4 Core Construction Courses

Construction Manager Salary in Arkansas

Now that you know a lot about being a construction manager, you might be curious about the salary.

As a manager, you’ll earn more than your team but less than your superiors.

In Arkansas, construction managers make around $121,696 per year.

In some areas, you can earn more, as shown in the table below.

Regional Salary in Arkansas

Construction Manager Schools by State